Ingredients

Directions

Place water in a small covered saucepan. Bring to a boil. Add quinoa and stir. Reduce heat to a simmer and replace lid. Simmer for 11-12 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Steam the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, either in the microwave or in a small covered pot with 1/2 inch water.

Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette. Place the vinegar and thyme in a small bowl, then whisk in the oil. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Place 3/4 cup of quinoa on each plate. Arrange a quarter of the vegetables over the quinoa and top with about 2 teaspoons of the vinaigrette.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Because quinoa is a seed, it contains more fat and calories than a similar volume of rice or another grain.

Quinoa, pronounced "keenwa" is a superfood and tastes really nice. It is quite versatile as you can have it hot or cold. I have it as a salad or hot like rice. Just google "nutritional value of Quinoa" it's good stuff.
- 10/29/09

I add it to meat balls, meatloafs or as oatmeal in the morning with milk and raisins. You can mix in figs,apples, carrots, corn, soy beans, broccs, assparagus...any veggie you like, then drizzle with lemon juice. YUMMMMMMM
- 2/23/10

I always toast the quinoa before cooking, and have never rinsed it. It doesn't taste bitter, I assume, because of the toasting. It adds a nutty flavor and smells divine while being toasted. I like tha addition of rice wine vinegar and thyme...I'd never tried that with quinoa. Yummy!
- 1/6/11

Loved this with roasted veggies - red and yellow peppers, and onion. Sprinkled with green onion for garnish. I've made quinoa many times, but just ran across directions to rinse well before cooking (in another recipe). What a difference. Buy pe-rinsed or take the extra step.
- 6/23/10

for people who are having a hard time finding it, please check out Whole Foods or Mustard Seed Market if you have one nearby. You should be also able to buy it (or request them to order it) at any local health food store. hope that's helpful!
- 10/29/09

I love quinoa; so versatile. I use it in place of rice and sometimes pasta. More protein & fiber. Rinse well; cook in low sodium/low fat broth; add veggies of your choice; add meat and/or sauce if desired. For breakfast, boil in water, add a little honey or brown sugar and cinnamon. Top with fruit.
- 8/29/10

This recipe was tested on 2 Austic (high-functioning)children who have complex diets & are fussy eaters. A dessert dish of homemade applesauce complemented this light and tasty dish for the picky eaters in our family!
- 11/24/09